The Dangers of Loading Docks

Loading docks can be dangerous places for forklifts and pedestrians. Falls from a loading dock in a forklift can be fatal. Every year, injuries and fatalities in the U.S. occur as a result of not taking safety precautions around loading/unloading docks. By adhering to the following safety tips, the risk of an injury or fatality can be reduced significantly. Periodic (at minimum annually) training should be completed and documented for any employer who has loading dock exposure.

Definitions

Gaining a thorough understanding of key terms related to loading dock safety is very important in order to maintain a safe work environment and properly train employees on potential hazards.

Dock Lock – A safety device that hooks to a trailer’s bumper when the truck is backed into a loading dock. The device is controlled from inside the loading dock area and prevents the trailer from being able to pull away from the dock.

Dock Plate – A movable metal plate that is placed between the warehouse dock and a trailer.

Live Loading – Live loading is occurring any time the driver of the truck is sitting in
the driver seat while a trailer is being loaded or unloaded, regardless of whether the keys are in the ignition or not.

Loading Dock – A platform where trucks are loaded and unloaded in addition to the area immediately inside the platform and the surrounding area outside the platform.

Mandatory Personnel – Personnel who are required to be in the warehouse and loading dock area to complete their job function, or any person who has supervisory responsibility for mandatory personnel.

Ensure that adequate signage exists at the entrance points to the loading dock areas to keep unauthorized employees from entering.

Prohibit live loading. Live loading can lead to poor communication and may lead to the driver pulling away before employees are completed with loading/unloading.

In summary, many hazards may lead to employees getting injured or killed on the job as a result of an unsafe work environment. It is the responsibility of the employer to ensure a safe working environment, and employees should follow safe work practices at all times. Periodic training on loading dock hazards, maintaining good housekeeping, and being aware of your surroundings could prevent an injury and even save your life!